The Uncompromise Podcast: Transformative Leadership Advice From Change Agents

Finding A Seat at the Corporate Table Doesn’t Mean You Succumb To Assimilation | feat. Dorothy Jones

Lisa Gardner is joined by Dorothy Jones, Chief Marketing Officer at Dallas College, to discuss maintaining authenticity and integrity while trying to find a seat at the table in corporate settings.   Dorothy shares her strategies for storytelling, the pressures women face in business, and the importance of mentorship and sponsorship. Dorothy also explores the cultural differences between the private sector and higher education, highlighting Dallas College's mission-driven culture. Gain insights into building impactful brands, fostering inclusive leadership, and supporting diverse executives.   Also in this episode:  Women and Authenticity: Jones highlights the struggle women face in maintaining authenticity in corporate settings, often having to conform to cultural norms and suppress their true selves to gain acceptance and leadership positions. Emotional Intelligence: the unique value women bring to the corporate table, such as emotional intelligence, relationship-building, and the ability to listen and observe before acting. Brand Fundamentals: Successful brand management requires understanding the fundamentals, including brand purpose, mission, goals, value proposition, and knowing the business one is in. Diversity in Leadership: the ongoing challenges of achieving it in marketing and corporate sectors. She notes that true inclusivity is still rare at senior levels. Support and Mentorship: the importance of mentorship and sponsorship in career development, providing support, guidance, and opportunities for growth, especially for women and people of color. Overcoming Challenges: Jones shares strategies for emerging as a leader in environments where one might be overlooked or undervalued, including preparation, building relationships, balancing listening and speaking, and understanding the dynamics of the room.   Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Dorothy Jones LinkedIn  About Dorothy Jones High-energy executive leader with a diverse background in managing small to large companies, budgets, and teams. I excel in operational excellence, strategic decision-making, and accountability management. My multi-dimensional skillset enhances work culture, drives performance, and ensures unique customer experiences through problem-solving and data analysis. Growth-minded, I integrate information to devise cohesive plans that drive action, aligning with visionary goals for accelerated company growth. Expertise includes brand strategy, communications, marketing, media management, crisis management, community relations, and innovation. Known for strategizing and executing deliverables for outstanding customer experiences, I am poised to be a valuable asset in a growth-oriented company.  About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

Change Starts with Listening First And Speaking Second: Boardroom Strategies for Leaders | feat. Christa Brown Sanford

Lisa Gardner is joined by Christa Brown Sanford, Chair of the Intellectual Property Department and key member of the Executive and Diversity & Inclusion Committees at her firm. Together they discuss boardroom dynamics and the balance between listening and speaking. Christa shares insights on balancing faith and professional life, highlighting daily prayer and reliance on God. She discusses career milestones, the importance of sponsorship, and the challenges of being a trailblazer as an African American woman. She emphasizes authenticity, recounting her decision to wear braids to work, and her goal to foster diversity in the legal industry. Finally, she shares the top character traits she instills in her children: God-dependence, empathy, and resilience. Also in this episode:   Role of Faith: daily prayer and reliance on God rather than self-reliance, citing the scripture "Trust in the Lord with all your heart." Importance of Sponsorship: the critical role of sponsorship in career advancement and the commitment to mentoring and sponsoring others to help them achieve success. Work-Life Integration: Rejecting the notion of balance, Krysta embraces the chaos and flexibility required to manage her professional, personal, and community responsibilities. She stresses the importance of planning and self-care, taking 30 minutes daily for herself. Boardroom Dynamics: strategies for being effective in environments where you may be the only person of your background. She focuses on understanding dynamics, listening, and making impactful contributions, including adapting to virtual board dynamics during COVID-19. Authenticity in Professional Settings: Krysta recounts her decision to wear braids again, challenging old norms and setting an example of authenticity and empowerment for others in the legal profession. Promoting Diversity in Law: particularly striving to increase the representation of Black women in leadership positions. Character Traits for Children: Krysta outlines the top three character traits she wants to instill in her children: God-dependence, empathy, and resilience.  Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Christa Brown Sanfrod LinkedIn  About Christa Brown Sanford Registered patent lawyer with experience in patent procurement, patent portfolio development, patent litigation, intellectual property licensing, and patent licensing in a variety of technical areas, including telecommunications, semiconductor fabrication, analog and digital circuits, electronics, software, application, financial services, blockchain, cryptocurrency, and mechanical devices.  Specialties: Intellectual property licensing, patent procurement, patent portfolio development, patent litigation  About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

Creating Ohio’s First Black Owned Bank & Why “We Need To Be More Tolerable Of Our Own” | feat. Jordan A Miller

Lisa Gardner is joined by Jordan A. Miller Jr., the chairman and CEO of Adelphi Bank, Ohio's first black owned bank.  Miller shares his journey from early challenges, including dropping out of college and facing resistance as a black bank examiner, to his leadership role at Fifth Third Bank. He emphasizes the importance of economic access for the Black community, advocating for entrepreneurship and homeownership. Miller proposes incentivizing support for black-owned businesses and stresses the need for financial literacy. Inspired by his parents' values, he envisions expanding Adelphi Bank's presence in underserved markets and remains committed to community empowerment beyond banking. Also in this episode: Overcoming Adversity in Banking: Miller emphasizes overcoming personal and systemic challenges, such as higher operational costs and regulatory skepticism, when founding Adelphi Bank to serve underserved communities. Advocacy for Minority Banks: Miller advocates for a different approach to support minority banks, emphasizing the importance of finding investors who understand and are patient with the mission of serving underserved communities. Diversity in Leadership: Miller discusses his efforts to increase diversity within organizations, such as hiring more diverse candidates and mentoring others, to change the predominantly white, male leadership structure. National Bankers Association Conference: Miller shares insights from a conference where leaders of minority-owned banks discussed best practices and strategies for strengthening their institutions, focusing on topics like CRA reform and community impact. Vision for Economic Growth: Jordan's vision involves encouraging Black entrepreneurship and homeownership, supported by financial literacy and incentives to use Black-owned businesses for property management needs. Commitment to Community:  Jordan expresses a deep commitment to empowering his community through financial services, inspired by his parents' examples, and remains open to expanding his efforts beyond banking to help underserved communities. Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Jordan A Miller LinkedIn  About Jordan A Miller Jordan Miller, a Columbus, Ohio native with nearly 35 years in the financial industry, is a retired Regional President of Fifth Third Bank Central Ohio. He now advises business and community organizations on strategic objectives and serves on nonprofit and for-profit boards. An Air Force veteran, Jordan began his banking career at the Comptroller of the Currency and spent over 14 years at Huntington National Bank. He joined Fifth Third in 1998, holding various leadership roles until retiring in 2019. Recognized for his community and business leadership, he was inducted into the Central Ohio Junior Achievement Hall of Fame.   About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

You CANNOT Be Afraid Of Who You Are: Being true to Yourself in a Competitive Industry | feat. Tamela Thornton

Lisa Gardner is joined by Tamela Thornton, a luminary in real estate management, discussing her unwavering integrity, being true to yourself, and her career challenges.   Thornton shares insights into maintaining authenticity and confronting adversity in a closed industry. Raised in a supportive Midwestern environment, she credits her upbringing for shaping her resilience and commitment to excellence. Reflecting on her journey, Thornton emphasizes the importance of humility, boldness, and empathy in leadership. She advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion, urging listeners to uphold standards and empower others. Thornton finds joy in family, music, and nurturing relationships, offering advice to live uncompromised lives by bringing out the best in oneself and others.  Also in this episode:   Tamela's leadership includes initiatives like Champions of Change, fostering diversity and mentorship in the industry. She has a global perspective from executive roles at Young Brands, PepsiCo, and Starbucks, shaping international markets. Tamela emphasizes the importance of maintaining personal integrity and authenticity, even in challenging professional environments. Tamela's approach to handling both victory and disappointment is grounded in recognizing the hard work and setbacks that contribute to success. She emphasizes the importance of humility, boldness, and emotional maturity in navigating professional challenges. Tamela advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion, highlighting the need for acknowledging and addressing systemic inequalities. Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Tamela Thorton LinkedIn  About Tamela Thorton Tamela Thornton, with 30 years in real estate management, analytics, and development, is Head of Client Services for E Smith Advisors and President and CEO of E Smith Communities. She oversees business development, strategic planning, market analysis, site selection, and transaction management. As a founding partner of E Smith Legacy Holdings, she led corporate real estate transitions. Tamela has served national and global clients in market strategy, site selection, leasing, and financial services. Previously, she held executive roles at YUM! Brands and Starbucks, leading construction and development. She graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and resides in Dallas, Texas.  About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

People Are Watching More Than You Think: How Small Moments Are Defining Your Leadership | feat. Garland Fuller

Lisa Gardner is joined by Garland Fuller, a DEI advocate with extensive experience in HR and talent acquisition to discuss how small moments are defining your leadership, the importance of fostering inclusion, and combating biases in corporate settings.  She advises individuals, especially those in C-suite positions, to embrace continuous learning and seek diverse mentorship. The discussion highlights the need for inclusive leadership at all levels and addresses challenges in change management. Fuller underscores the value of upskilling and embracing failure as catalysts for growth. Overall, the conversation offers practical insights for promoting diversity and equity in organizations, encouraging leaders to prioritize inclusive cultures and work-life integration.  Also in this episode:   Rewarding Aspects of DEI Work: Fuller shares the fulfillment she derives from helping individuals recognize the value of their voices and combating imposter syndrome, emphasizing the importance of belonging and embracing unique contributions. Challenges in DEI: Fuller acknowledges challenges such as awareness disparities and implicit biases, highlighting the complexities involved in fostering true inclusion. Practical Strategies for C-suite: Fuller advocates for a growth mindset, mentorship, and continuous learning for individuals of color in leadership positions, emphasizing self-awareness and skill enhancement. Inclusivity at All Levels: Gardner and Fuller stress the need for inclusivity at all levels of leadership, challenging exclusionary norms and advocating for diverse representation in boardrooms. Change Management and Talent Acquisition: Fuller discusses the importance of upskilling employees and embracing failure as part of the learning process, urging organizations to adopt a flexible approach to change. Overall Importance of DEI: The conversation underscores the significance of fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in corporate settings, providing practical insights into driving meaningful change. Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Garland Fuller LinkedIn  About Garland Fuller Garland Fuller is an award-winning Career Strategist with over 10 years of experience. She empowers women to navigate and strategize their career paths, ensuring they secure ideal opportunities. As founder of Fuller Circle Consulting, Garland guides individuals towards transformative careers with confidence and clarity. With 8 years in career strategy and 15 years in HR, talent acquisition, and employee engagement, Garland co-founded Level Up Inclusion Partners and teach at USC Price School. She helps individuals and organizations optimize talent and foster inclusivity. Garland offers group coaching, individual sessions, and organizational workshops. She also host "Full Circle with Garland," a podcast on social impact and inclusion. She serves on the board of AAREP LA and was named one of Bisnow’s SoCal Power Women in 2021.   About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

The Cream Will Rise To The Top Regardless Of Color | feat. Torrey Littlejohn

Lisa Gardner is joined by Tori Littlejohn, JLL's senior managing director to discuss the transformative power of equity and the importance of fostering cultures of belonging. Discover how Tori's journey as the first black woman in her role shapes her insights and drives her passion for change. With personal anecdotes and practical strategies, this episode offers actionable insights into creating environments where everyone can thrive.   Also in this episode: 
Diversity extends beyond race to include various perspectives, experiences, ages, and backgrounds, enriching discussions and decision-making processes. 
 
Equity ensures equal access to opportunities and resources for all individuals, irrespective of their background, promoting fairness and leveling the playing field. 
 
Diverse teams offer valuable perspectives, particularly in client interactions, enhancing problem-solving and innovation. 
 
Diversity works reciprocally, where individuals can both bring diversity to others and gain diversity from their partners, benefiting everyone involved. 
 
Gratitude and faith play significant roles in navigating challenges and maintaining a positive outlook in personal and professional lives. 
 
Embracing authenticity and self-love, along with contributing to diversity and inclusion efforts, are essential for personal and professional fulfillment. 
 Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Torrey Littlejohn LinkedIn  About Torrey Littlejohn Torrey is more than a real estate advisor; She is a business partner solving complex business problems through real estate decisions, such as fiscal issues, cultural shifts, downsizing, or mergers. She builds trust with teams to foster long-term growth and enjoy seeing companies and communities evolve. Common reasons companies hire her include lowering occupancy costs, evaluating lease vs. purchase, assessing multiple sites for relocation, and resizing or reconfiguring space. With JLL’s national platform, Torrey has the support and resources of the strongest real estate firm in the country, empowering diverse working women to achieve bigger and better ambitions.   About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

Can You Have It All: Family, Success, AND Be True To Who You Wish To Be? | feat. Judge Monica McCoy Purdy

Lisa Gardner welcomes special guest Judge Monica McCoy Purdy to delve into the complexities of navigating professional challenges of “can you have it all?” while upholding integrity and authenticity. Judge Purdy shares insights from her remarkable journey as the presiding judge of the 95th Judicial District in Dallas County, Texas.  They discuss the importance of maintaining authenticity and integrity in the face of professional challenges, drawing from personal experiences and lessons learned. The conversation alo extends to the broader societal issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion, as Judge Purdy offers thought-provoking perspectives on the ongoing struggle for equality in professional spaces.     Also in this episode:  Judge Purdy, a pioneer in the legal arena, prioritizes judicial excellence and community engagement. Purdy's upbringing in a middle-class neighborhood influenced her commitment to education and achievement. Her passion for law stemmed from observing community leaders speak for those who couldn't. Victory is celebrated with humility, acknowledging the support of others. Purdy handles defeat by learning from it and pushing harder for the next opportunity. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are vital for leveling the playing field and achieving fairness.  Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Judge Monica McCoy Purdy LinkedIn  About Judge Monica McCoy Purdy Experienced District Judge with a demonstrated history of working in the Judiciary. Skilled in Trials, Appeals, Hearings, Arbitration, and Trial Practice. Strong legal professional with a Juris Doctor focused in Law from Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law.   About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

Comfortable Complacency vs. Uncomfortable Activism And The Responsibility Of Being A Change Agent | feat. T. Dupree Scovell

Lisa Gardner, is joined by T. Dupree Scoville, the Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer at Woodbine Development Corporation to discuss their shared commitment to addressing societal issues, particularly within the context of being a change agent, racial divides and corporate responsibility.  Through personal anecdotes and reflections, Gardner and Scoville explore the transformative power of mentorship, values, and grassroots initiatives. Learn about Scoville's innovative approach to fostering dialogue and understanding through speaker series and community engagement projects aimed at tackling racism and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. They also discuss white privilege and systemic biases in professions like real estate. Lastly, Gardner and Scoville share candid insights into the importance of diversifying recruitment efforts and creating safe spaces for open dialogue.    Also in this episode:  Dupree Scoville's journey from dishwasher to Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer exemplifies ambition, resilience, and vision. The importance of values, authenticity, and integrity in organizational settings. Scoville's dedication to combating human trafficking and supporting education  Scoville's background and Woodbine Development Corporation's origin showcase a journey rooted in diversity and community engagement. Genuine communication and sincerity need to be priorities in efforts to promote racial reconciliation and diversity. The importance of prioritizing family and unity as catalysts for broader societal change.  Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With T. Dupree Scovell LinkedIn  About T. Dupree Scovell T. Dupree Scovell is the managing partner and chief investment officer at Woodbine Development Corporation, specializing in hospitality. He began in the hotel industry at 16 and joined Woodbine in 2011, opening a West Coast office in LA. Dupree leads the team with his brother King, oversees acquisitions, capital markets, and Woodbine Legacy Investments. Previously, he worked at Trammell Crow Company in Dallas. Recognized as one of “Tomorrow's Newsmakers” and “40 Under 40,” Dupree holds four bachelor’s degrees from Texas Tech and two master’s degrees from Stanford. He supports public education and the Scovell Scholarship Foundation for underprivileged students.  About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children. 

How You Can Start Leveraging Diversity for Business Success | feat. Sarah Madsen Miller

Lisa Gardner is joined by Sarah Matson Miller of 1820 Productions to discuss leveraging diversity and core values of authenticity, integrity, and character in business. Renowned for her diverse visual content for brands like Frito-Lay and Toyota, Sarah shares her journey from corporate America to the creative industry. Reflecting on their 14-year professional relationship, Lisa and Sarah discuss servant leadership, fostering a positive team culture, and transforming setbacks into opportunities. Tune in for insights on strategic vision, faith, and the impactful power of positive leadership in driving business success. Also in this episode:   The significance of authenticity, integrity, and character in business. Transitioning from corporate roles to entrepreneurship. Strategies for maintaining professionalism while working with a spouse. The impact of servant leadership and fostering a positive team culture. Turning disappointments into opportunities and the importance of resilience.   Subscribe to The Uncompromise Podcast Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect With Lisa Gardner Instagram Linkedin TikTok  Connect With Sarah Madsen Miller LinkedIn  About Sarah Madsen Miller Sara Madsen Miller is the COO and Executive Producer at 1820 Productions, an Emmy-winning video production company. With 14 years of experience managing Pfizer portfolios worth over $750M, she excels in delivering award-winning content that exceeds client expectations. Specializing in client goals, Sara leverages her network and strategic thinking for effective solutions. She has executive produced commercials, documentaries, and TV shows for major clients like Frito Lay, Toyota, and 7-Eleven, and collaborated with agencies such as The Richards Group. Her expertise includes video production, brand development, creative services, leadership, and curating Covid-safe virtual programming.  About Lisa Gardner Lisa Gardner is a corporate real estate thought leader and co-founder of OMS Strategic Advisors, LLC, focusing on real estate, strategy, and workforce development. With over 25 years of experience, she drives profitability by optimizing human capital, leading diversity initiatives, and crafting corporate strategies. She has managed national accounts for Fortune 500 companies like Wal-Mart and AT&T, and revitalized multicultural marketing for JCPenney. Lisa serves on the Executive Board of SMU's Cox School of Business and contributes to DCEO Magazine. She is active in her community at Gateway Church and lives in Plano, Texas, with her husband and two children.  How You Can Start Leveraging Diversity for Business Success | feat. Sarah Madsen Miller The Uncompromise Podcast: Transformative Leadership Advice From Business Executives & Coporate Trailblazers 

The Uncompromised Life - Podcast Intro

UNCOMPROMISE: noun - Unwavering commitment to values, beliefs, authenticity, integrity or character that brings heart and care to an organization.This is a fortuitous moment for me, as this has been a labor of love ignited by a burning inside of me to share the stories of those who have committed to challenging corporate norms, using their voices and positions to enact change, and remaining UNCOMPROMISED in the process. Thank you in advance for tuning in, sharing, and committing to the UNCOMPROMISED life!